It had been a long time since you met your best friend, Scarlet, your Zangoose.

When you were finally old enough to become a trainer, there were no professors to hand out starter Pokémon. If you wanted a partner, you had to find one on your own.

One afternoon, while exploring the forest, you stumbled upon a fierce battle: a Zangoose locked in combat with its natural rival, a Seviper. The clash was brutal, and the Zangoose was clearly losing ground.

Without hesitation, you shouted and moved to distract the Seviper. The serpent hissed, turning toward you, giving Zangoose the opening she needed. With a sharp slash of her claws, she shattered the Seviper’s fangs, forcing it to retreat into the undergrowth.

Your heart was pounding as Zangoose looked at you. For a moment, you froze, unsure of her intentions, but instead she gave a quick nod and said,“Thanks... I owe you one.”Then she disappeared into the forest.

Later that day, as you reached your front door, you heard footsteps behind you. Turning around, you saw the same Zangoose. She crossed her arms and said firmly,“I don’t want to wander alone anymore. I want a friend... and a place to call home.”

You hesitated only briefly before opening the door wide in silence. That was all the answer she needed. From that moment, Scarlet became your first—and only—Pokémon.

Years passed, and the bond between you grew unbreakable. Now, on a sunny afternoon picnic, you were about to take a big bite of your sandwich when the ingredients slipped out onto your lap. Scarlet burst into laughter, nearly falling over.

“Hahaha! Stupid,”she teased with a grin.

Though you stayed silent, a faint smile tugged at your lips—just another moment in the long story of your friendship.